Wills and Probate
Texas Attorneys serving Bryan, College Station and the surrounding area
Clients we have helped with divorce or other family law matters often come to us for legal guidance concerning wills and probate. In many cases, drafting a will is a simple matter that can keep families from battling over assets after a loved one dies. The attorneys at C.E. Borman & Associates can assist you with preparation of a will and help your family deal with probate administration.
“It is the single most loving thing you can do for the family you leave behind.”
– Channa Borman
What is a Last Will and Testament?
A will is a legal document that expresses your wishes regarding:
- Distribution of your property after death (car, house, personal belongings, business investments, etc.)
- The care of your minor children (assigning someone as their legal guardian)
What is Probate?
Probate is a legal process handled by a probate court when a person dies. The process involves:
- Establishing that the will is valid
- Identifying and inventorying property
- Appraising property
- Paying debts and taxes
- Distributing the remaining property according to the will or based on state laws if there was no will
What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
The rules regarding how your property is distributed after you die without a will vary depending on the nature of the property and your familial status. If you were divorced or widowed and you die without a will, your children inherit all your property and the court divides the property equally between them. If you were married and have no surviving children, then all of the property goes to your spouse.
If you were married, and your children are also your spouse’s children, then all the community property (co-owned property) passes to your spouse. If you had any separate property (owned only by you), then your children inherit two-thirds of the separate property and your spouse inherits the other third.
If you had children from a previous marriage, then one half of your community property goes to them and the other half goes to your spouse. Distribution of your separate property remains two-thirds to the children and one-third to your spouse.
Contested Wills
Heirs to an estate sometimes disagree over how the will is being interpreted or may believe that a will was signed under duress. Or, they may argue that the executor isn’t handling the estate administration properly. Disputes can lead to lawsuits that probate courts must resolve.
At the law firm of C.E. Borman & Associates, our attorneys have considerable litigation experience in probate matters and can represent you and protect your rights during a contested will proceeding.
If you have questions about probate or wills or need legal help to challenge a will, arrange a confidential consultation to find out how we can assist you.
How Long Does Probate Take in Texas?
The length of a probate or administration depends on a number of factors:
- Existence or lack of a will
- Complexity of the estate
- Size and nature of the estate
- Cooperation of beneficiaries or heirs
- Contested will or other estate matters
Contact Us for a Confidential Consultation
At C.E. Borman & Associates, you will find attorneys who are dedicated to protecting your legal rights. Call our Bryan, Texas office at (979) 846-4090 or contact us online. Schedule an appointment to discuss your situation with an attorney and find our how our experience can benefit you.
Our firm represents clients in Brazos, Robertson, Madison, Burleson, Grimes, Washington, Austin, Lee and Leon Counties.
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Excellence & Experience
C.E. Borman & Associates has been selected for the 2014 College Station Best Businesses Award for Divorce & Family Law